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Ground Systems Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Peraton

Satellite Ground Systems Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$104K - $166K/yr

The Satellite Ground Systems Engineer will be responsible for the following but not limited to: The ideal and selected candidate will: * Develop concepts of operation. * Conduct requirements analysis.

Peraton

Satellite Ground Systems Engineer

Herndon, VA

$104K - $166K/yr

The Satellite Ground Systems Engineer will be responsible for the following but not limited to: The ideal and selected candidate will: * Develop concepts of operation. * Conduct requirements analysis.

Peraton

Satellite Ground Systems Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$104K - $166K/yr

The Satellite Ground Systems Engineer will be responsible for the following but not limited to: The ideal and selected candidate will: * Develop concepts of operation. * Conduct requirements analysis.

Aurex

Ground Network Systems Engineer

Chantilly, VA

Ground Network Systems Engineer Chantilly, VA Who We Are Aurex is a mission-focused aerospace and defense company building the next frontier of deterrence. From hypersonics and missile defense to ...

SAIC

Ground Architecture Systems Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site +1

$160K - $200K/yr

As the Ground Architecture Systems Engineer you will track deliveries, performance requirements, and integration activities across three major system acquisitions spanning five system program offices ...

KBR

Ground Software Systems Engineer

Chantilly, VA

$160K - $205K/yr

Ground Software Systems Engineer Belong. Connect. Grow. with KBR! KBR's National Security Solutions team provides high-end engineering and advanced technology solutions to our customers in the ...

KBR, Inc.

Ground Software Systems Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$160K - $205K/yr

Ground Software Systems Engineer Belong. Connect. Grow. with KBR! KBR's National Security Solutions team provides high-end engineering and advanced technology solutions to our customers in the ...

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All JobsGround Systems Engineer JobsGround Systems Engineer Jobs in Virginia

Ground Systems Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$78.3K

$109.3K

$130.4K

How much do ground systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for ground systems engineer in Virginia is $109,282.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $105,600.00 and $113,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by ground systems engineers when integrating new technologies into existing infrastructure?

Ground Systems Engineers often encounter challenges when integrating new technologies, such as ensuring compatibility with legacy systems, maintaining minimal downtime during upgrades, and addressing cybersecurity concerns. Balancing the need for innovation with the reliability requirements of mission-critical ground operations can be demanding. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams—including software developers, network specialists, and mission operators—is essential to ensure smooth implementation and ongoing system performance.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a ground systems engineer?

To thrive as a Ground Systems Engineer, you need a solid background in systems engineering, computer science or electrical engineering, and experience with satellite or aerospace ground systems. Familiarity with technical tools such as Linux/UNIX environments, scripting languages, network protocols, and commonly required certifications like Security+ or CompTIA Network+ is important. Strong problem-solving skills, clear communication, and the ability to work collaboratively in multidisciplinary teams set outstanding candidates apart. These skills and qualifications ensure ground systems are designed, integrated, and maintained effectively, supporting reliable space mission operations.

What is a ground systems engineer?

Ground Systems Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and maintain the infrastructure and hardware on Earth that supports space missions and satellite operations. Their work involves creating and managing systems that communicate with spacecraft, such as tracking stations, control centers, and data processing facilities. They ensure reliable communication between ground facilities and spacecraft, troubleshoot technical issues, and often collaborate with other engineering teams. Ground Systems Engineers play a crucial role in the success of satellite launches, ongoing mission operations, and data retrieval from space assets.

What is the difference between Ground Systems Engineer vs Satellite Systems Engineer?

AspectGround Systems EngineerSatellite Systems Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in engineering, certifications in systems or satellite technologyBachelor's in aerospace, electrical, or systems engineering, similar certifications
Work EnvironmentGround-based facilities, control centers, labsSatellite design, testing, and integration facilities
Industry UsageSpace agencies, defense, telecommunicationsSatellite manufacturing, space agencies, defense
Job FocusDesign, operate, and maintain ground control systemsDesign, develop, and test satellite systems

Both roles require engineering expertise and often similar certifications. Ground Systems Engineers focus on ground control and support infrastructure, while Satellite Systems Engineers work on satellite design and development. They collaborate closely in space projects but have distinct technical focuses.

What are popular job titles related to Ground Systems Engineer jobs in Virginia? For Ground Systems Engineer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Ground Systems Engineer jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Ground Systems Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Ground Systems Engineer jobs in VA? For Ground Systems Engineer jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Ground Systems Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ground Systems Engineer job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $109,282 per year, or $52.5 per hour.

Sr. Ground Systems Engineer - TeraWave

Blue Origin, LLC

Reston, VA • On-site

$156K - $219K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago

Blue Origin rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 91 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

17th of 71 rated aerospace companies

Job description

Application close date:
Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis until the requisition is closed.
At Blue Origin, we envision millions of people living and working in space for the benefit of Earth. We're working to develop reusable, safe, and low-cost space vehicles and systems within a culture of safety, collaboration, and inclusion. Join our team of problem solvers as we add new chapters to the history of spaceflight!
Blue Origin is pioneering the future of space-based communications with TeraWave, a revolutionary satellite communications network designed to deliver symmetrical data speeds of up to 6 Tbps anywhere on Earth. This multi-orbit constellation will consist of optically interconnected satellites in low Earth orbit (LEO) and medium Earth orbit (MEO), providing enterprise-grade connectivity for critical operations worldwide.
As part of a hardworking team of engineers, you will play a meaningful role in the design, development, integration, and maintenance of ground-based systems that support our space missions and advancing ground capabilities. This includes understanding of related capabilities such as cross domain solutions, cyber security architectural principles and the needed software development standards, ensuring secure and efficient communications between various security domains.
We are looking for someone to apply their technical expertise, leadership skills, and dedication to quality to positively impact TeraWave. Passion for our mission and vision is required!
Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
  • Design, develop, integrate, and maintain ground systems advancing capabilities to support our TeraWave initiatives.
  • Collaborate with multi-functional teams to capture requirements, define systems architecture, and develop detailed system design specifications.
  • Develop software solutions that facilitate secure data transfer between various security domains, ensuring compliance with relevant security policies and standards.
  • Conduct system-level testing, solving, and performance optimization to ensure robust and reliable operation of ground systems.
  • Support the full software development lifecycle, including requirements analysis, design, coding, testing, documentation, and maintenance.
  • Share technical expertise and mentorship on ground systems engineering standard methodologies, including security, scalability, and maintainability.
  • Ensure that all ground systems deployments meet or exceed regulatory and security compliance requirements.
  • Document system configurations, procedures, and processes; provide training and support to operational teams as required.

Minimum Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Systems Engineering, or a related field.
  • Minimum of 10 years of experience in space mission ground systems, with a focus on network protocol security policies, standards and requirements.
  • Expertise in crafting and implementing secure communication systems that operate across multiple security domains
  • Strong understanding of security protocols, encryption, and data integrity principles.
  • Proven experience in system integration, testing, and performance tuning.
  • Expertise in requirements definition and management, preferably using DOORS Next Generation (DNG)

Preferred Qualifications
  • Master's degree or equivalent in a relevant engineering or scientific field.
  • Proficiency in programming languages such as Python, Java, C++, or similar.
  • Expertise in Agile, DevSecOps, AWS or Azure.
  • Experience with spacecraft subsystems and associated subsystem software.
  • Experience with communications protocols for space applications (e.g. CCSDS, DDS, etc.)
  • Familiarity with system safety analyses techniques including Functional Hazard Assessments (FHA), Failure Modes, Effects and Criticality Analyses (FMECA), and Fault Tree Analysis (FTA)
  • Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to work optimally in a dynamic and collaborative team environment.
  • Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to convey complex technical concepts to a wide audience.

Base Pay Range for:
WA applicants is $156,802.00 - $219,522.45
Other site ranges may differ
Culture Statement
Don't meet all desired requirements? Studies have shown that some people are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single desired qualification. At Blue Origin, we are dedicated to building an authentic workplace, so if you're excited about this role but your past experience doesn't align perfectly with every desired qualification in the job description, we encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles.
Export Control Regulations
Applicants for employment at Blue Origin must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident (i.e. current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum.
Background Check
  • Required for all positions: Blue's Standard Background Check
  • Required for Certain Job Profiles: Defense Biometric Identification System (DBIDS) background check if at any time the role requires one to be on a military installation
  • Required for Certain Job Profiles: Drivers who operate Commercial Motor Vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW), Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) or combination of power unit and trailer that meets or exceeds 10,001 lbs. and/or transports placardable amounts of hazardous materials by ground in any vehicle on a public road while in commerce, may be subject to additional Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations including: Driver Qualification Files, Medical Certification (obtained before onboarding), Road Test, Hours of Service, Drug and Alcohol Testing (CDL drivers only), vehicle inspection requirements, CDL requirements (if applicable) and hazardous materials transportation/shipping training.
  • Required for certain Job Profiles: Ability to obtain and maintain Merchant Mariner Credential, which includes pre-employment and random drug testing as well as DOT physical

Benefits
  • Benefits include: Medical, dental, vision, basic and supplemental life insurance, paid parental leave, short and long-term disability, 401(k) with a company match of up to 5%, and an Education Support Program.
  • Stock Options for all regular employees (working at least 20 hours/week)
  • Paid Time Off: Up to four (4) weeks per year based on weekly scheduled hours, and up to 14 company-paid holidays.
  • Dependent on role type and job level, employees may be eligible for benefits and bonuses based on the company's intent to reward individual contributions and enable them to share in the company's results, or other factors at the company's sole discretion. Bonus amounts and eligibility are not guaranteed and subject to change and cancellation. Please check with your recruiter for more details.

Equal Employment Opportunity
Blue Origin is proud to be an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and is committed to attracting, retaining, and developing a highly qualified and dedicated work force. Blue Origin hires and promotes people on the basis of their qualifications, performance, and abilities. We support the establishment and maintenance of a workplace that fosters trust, equality, and teamwork. We provide all qualified applicants for employment and employees with equal opportunities for hire, promotion, and other terms and conditions of employment, regardless of their race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin/ethnicity, age, physical or mental disability, genetic factors, military/veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by federal, state, and/or local law. Blue Origin will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with applicable federal, state, and local laws, including the Washington Fair Chance Act, the California Fair Chance Act, the Los Angeles Fair Chance in Hiring Ordinance, and other applicable laws. For more information on "Know Your Rights," please see here.
Affirmative Action and Disability Accommodation
Applicants wishing to receive information on Blue Origin's Affirmative Action Plans, or applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation in order to participate in the application and/or interview process, please contact us at EEOCompliance@blueorigin.com. Please note this is a publicly managed inbox. Please do not include any personal medical information in your request.

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About Blue Origin

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Blue Origin is a private aerospace manufacturing and suborbital spaceflight services company based in Kent, Washington, USA. Established in 2000 by Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, the company operates in the cutting-edge aerospace industry aiming to build a future where millions of people can live and work in space. They develop a variety of technologies, with a focus on reusable rocket systems which significantly reduce the cost of space travel. Blue Origin's core mission is to make this vision come to life by incrementally building on its successes with an ultimate vision of dramatic cost reduction and increased reliance on reusable spacecraft.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Kent, WA, US

Year founded

2000

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